Why Our Doctors Recommend Tooth-Colored Fillings
At CopperMine Dental Studio, we are committed to providing our patients with safe, aesthetic, and durable dental treatments. One of the most popular services we offer is replacing outdated silver (mercury) fillings with modern tooth-colored fillings.
If you have old silver fillings, we highly recommend considering a replacement with porcelain or composite resin fillings. Not only do tooth-colored fillings provide a more natural appearance, but they also offer a stronger, longer-lasting solution that will protect your teeth more effectively.
Why Should You Replace Your Silver Mercury Fillings
Mercury fillings were used for many years in dentistry. You’ve likely had one in your lifetime. In recent years, there has been a shift away from mercury for several reasons. Our doctors recommend replacing mercury fillings with porcelain tooth-colored fillings because they result in a stronger tooth and higher aesthetic value.
The health and appearance of your smile are important, and tooth-colored fillings offer a safer and more attractive option for dental restoration.
Disadvantages of Silver Fillings
While silver fillings (also known as amalgam fillings) were commonly used in the past, they come with several drawbacks:
- Weakened Tooth Structure: The edges of silver fillings tend to wear down over time, weakening the structure of the tooth and making it more vulnerable to breakage.
- Expansion and Contraction: Silver fillings expand and contract with temperature changes, which can lead to cracks in the tooth, opening the door for bacteria to enter and cause further decay.
- Mercury Content: Silver fillings contain about 50% mercury, which has raised health concerns due to its toxicity. Over time, mercury can corrode and leak, potentially staining your teeth and gums.
Advantages of Tooth-Colored Fillings
Tooth-colored fillings, made from composite resin or porcelain, offer several advantages over traditional silver fillings:
- Aesthetic Appeal: Tooth-colored fillings blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth, making them nearly invisible. This provides a more natural-looking restoration, especially for fillings in visible areas like the front teeth.
- Stronger Tooth Structure: Resin onlays and fillings are bonded to the tooth, creating an extremely tight fit, which is superior to silver fillings. This bonding helps restore the strength of the tooth and prevents further damage.
- Preserves More of the Tooth: Our goal is always to preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Resin fillings can be used even when a large portion of the tooth has been lost, allowing it to stay intact.
- Fluoride Protection: The resin used in tooth-colored fillings contains fluoride, which helps protect the tooth from further decay.
- Natural Wear: Resin fillings wear similarly to natural teeth, and they do not require placement at the gum line. This creates a smooth, comfortable, and natural-feeling restoration.
Schedule Your Tooth-Colored Filling Consultation
If you’re interested in replacing your silver, mercury fillings with tooth-colored resin fillings, CopperMine Dental Studio is here to help.
We proudly serve Sahuarita, AZ, and surrounding communities, offering safe, durable, and aesthetically pleasing filling options. Call us at 520-838-0600 or email us to schedule a consultation.
FAQs About Tooth-Colored Fillings
How long do tooth-colored fillings last?
Tooth-colored fillings typically last between 5 to 10 years, depending on factors like the size of the filling, your oral hygiene habits, and the location of the filling.Are tooth-colored fillings as durable as silver fillings?
Yes. Tooth-colored fillings are strong and durable, especially when placed in smaller cavities. They provide similar or even better longevity compared to silver fillings.How do tooth-colored fillings compare to silver fillings?
Tooth-colored fillings offer better aesthetic results, are more biocompatible, and do not contain mercury. They also bond better to the tooth, helping to preserve the natural tooth structure.Can tooth-colored fillings be used for large cavities?
Yes. Composite resin or porcelain fillings can be used for both small and large cavities, depending on the location and the amount of tooth structure that needs restoration.How long does it take to place a tooth-colored filling?
The process usually takes about 20-30 minutes per tooth, depending on the size and location of the cavity.